Acorus gramineus

Acorus gramineus

Acorus gramineus, commonly known as Japanese sweet flag or dwarf sedge, is a species of flowering plant in the family Acoraceae. It is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. This perennial plant is often found in wetlands, marshes, and along the edges of ponds and streams.

Description

Acorus gramineus is a perennial herb with a grass-like appearance. It typically grows to a height of 30-50 cm. The leaves are narrow, linear, and bright green, resembling those of grasses. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers on a spadix, which is a type of inflorescence. The flowers are usually greenish-yellow and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Cultivation and Uses

Acorus gramineus is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and ability to thrive in wet conditions. It is often used in water gardens, ponds, and bog gardens. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a variety of soil types, provided they are consistently moist.

In traditional Chinese medicine, Acorus gramineus is used for its purported medicinal properties. It is believed to have calming effects and is used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory problems.

Varieties

Several cultivars of Acorus gramineus have been developed for ornamental use, including:

• Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' - Known for its striking yellow-striped leaves.
• Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus' - Features green leaves with white stripes.

Related Species

• Acorus calamus - Also known as sweet flag, a closely related species with similar uses and habitat preferences.

Related Pages

• Acorus
• Acoraceae
• Japanese sweet flag
• Chinese medicine
• Water garden